From neoclassical landmarks with rooftop views of the Parthenon to intimate stays on ancient Plaka’s cobblestone streets, Athens is a city where history sleeps next door. For travelers who want to wake up in the shadow of the Acropolis and explore millennia of civilization on foot, choosing the right hotel is essential. These selected top hotels in Athens blend prime location, historical ambiance, and modern comfort perfectly for the curious traveler.
Here are the best top hotels in Athens for an immersive historical stay in the Cradle of Western Civilization.
Why Stay at These Top Hotels in Athens?
Athens’s most historic districts cluster around the Acropolis. Staying at these top hotels in Athens offers:
🏛️ Walking access to the Acropolis, Agora & Plaka
🌅 Sunrise and sunset views of ancient sites without the crowds
🏨 Historic buildings with stories of their own
🗺️ Immersive exploration on foot, day or night
🍽️ Rooftop dining with unparalleled views
Best Top Hotels in Athens for History Lovers
1. Hotel Grande Bretagne
The legendary Hotel Grande Bretagne has been a Athens landmark since 1874. My evening on the rooftop terrace, watching the Parthenon glow under sunset, was a historical moment in itself. This is one of the definitive top hotels in Athens for those who appreciate legacy luxury.
- Area: Syntagma Square
- Highlights: Direct Acropolis views, historic elegance, walking distance to National Archaeological Museum
- Perfect for: Luxury seekers and history enthusiasts
2. Herodion Hotel
Just a five-minute walk from the Acropolis Museum, Herodion Hotel offers modern comfort in an ancient setting. Waking up to a rooftop view of the Acropolis with my morning coffee was a highlight of my trip, solidifying its place among the top hotels in Athens for convenience and views.
- Area: Acropolis / Makrygianni
- Highlights: Steps from Acropolis Museum, rooftop lounge, peaceful garden
- Perfect for: Travelers wanting proximity without the crowds
3. Electra Palace Athens
Nestled in the heart of Plaka, Athens’s oldest neighborhood, Electra Palace Athens is a neoclassical gem. Stepping out into the labyrinth of historic streets each morning made me feel part of the city’s timeless narrative. It’s easily one of the top hotels in Athens for an immersive old-world experience.
- Area: Plaka
- Highlights: Rooftop pool with Acropolis view, in the historic Plaka district, walk to Ancient Agora
- Perfect for: Travelers who want to be surrounded by history
4. A for Athens
For history lovers on a budget, A for Athens offers an unbeatable location right on Monastiraki Square, overlooking the Ancient Agora. The rooftop bar provides one of the most dynamic views of the Acropolis, making it a standout among the more affordable top hotels in Athens.
- Area: Monastiraki
- Highlights: Panoramic Acropolis views from rooftop, central to all ancient sites, vibrant neighborhood
- Perfect for: Budget-conscious travelers and social explorers
5. Plaka Hotel
Value and location define Plaka Hotel. Its simple comfort and rooftop breakfast with an Acropolis view make it a practical choice for travelers who prioritize exploring over luxury. It’s a consistent favorite for securing a spot among the top hotels in Athens for direct access to history.
- Area: Plaka
- Highlights: Rooftop Acropolis views, steps from Roman Forum, excellent value
- Perfect for: Practical travelers and first-time visitors
FAQs About The Top Hotels in Athens
Enhance Your Visit: Guided Historical Tour
To deepen your understanding, consider the Athens All-Included Acropolis & Museum Guided Tour. This skip-the-line experience with an expert guide provides essential context, making the ancient stones tell their stories. It’s the perfect complement to staying at one of these top hotels in Athens.
Final Tips for Your Stay
Choose a hotel in Plaka, Monastiraki, or near the Acropolis Museum for maximum walkability. Prioritize a rooftop view for unforgettable memories. Book your stay and Acropolis tickets well in advance, especially in peak season. Spend at least two or three nights to explore at a relaxed pace. Athens is a city best experienced slowly. By choosing one of these top hotels in Athens, you place yourself at the heart of its timeless narrative, ready to discover its layers from dawn until the Parthenon lights up the night.
Best Travel Tips
Book Your Flight
Find the cheapest flight by using Skyscanner. For over a decade I've found it to nearly always offer the best deals.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hotel or guesthouse with Agoda as it consistently has the best rates.
Always Use Travel Insurance
Travel insurance safeguards you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations, providing peace of mind if anything goes wrong. My top pick for excellent service and value is SquareMouth (best for all age groups.)
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip?
- Economy to Mid-Range
- TripAdvisor
- Go With Guide Mid-Range to Luxury
- TRAFALGAR
Stay Connected While Traveling
Cheapest Way to Transfer Money
I’ve been using XE for all my international money transfers, and it’s been a game changer. The fees are super low, and I get the real exchange rate which saves a lot. The normal fee is usually just a couple dollars per transaction.
Ready to Book Your Trip?
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